Winter has made its triumphant entrance, and the cold wave currently affecting much of Spain is generating temperatures that fall below zero in several places in the country. This situation is particularly evident in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands, where the minimum temperatures have been recorded at alarming levels, accompanied by winds reaching up to 80 km/h, which significantly increases the sensation of cold. This meteorological phenomenon also reminds us of the importance of studying the polar trough and its impact on the climate.
Frost has been severe in several regions. In the Port of Leitariegos, Asturias, temperatures of -13ºC, while in Medina de Rioseco and Sardón de Duero, both in Valladolid, temperatures have reached -6.8ºC y -6.1ºC respectively. Other provinces are not far behind, such as Palencia (-4ºC), the Tramuntana mountain range in Mallorca (-4ºC), Ávila (-2ºC) and Segovia (-1ºC).
The use of chains is mandatory in many sections
The cold snap has transformed the landscape in many regions, covering much of the country in a white blanket of snow. This situation has led to the mandatory use of chains on several roads to avoid safety issues. Some of the most affected sections are:
- Asturian mountain passes: San Isidro in Aller, Tarna in Caso, Somiedo and Puerto de San Lorenzo in Somiedo, and Puerto de Ventana in Teverga.
- Burgos roads: BU-571 on the Sía River, and on BU-572, near the Lunada River.
- Roads of León: LE-233 between Boca de Huergano and Besande, on LE-473 at Pola de Gordón, on LE-481 between San Emiliano and Torrebarrio, and on LE-495 between Cabrillanes and Meroy.
Weather models indicate that in the coming days it is expected that snow at very low altitudes, below the 200 meters above sea levelThis phenomenon is rare and is expected to occur especially starting tomorrow and Wednesday, which could result in an extraordinary event for many localities. In addition, for a more in-depth look at the weather situation, we recommend reading the article on the coldest countries on the planet.
Recommendations for extreme cold
The climate situation demands an appropriate response to ensure the safety and well-being of the population. The following advice is recommended:
- Check the weather forecast before going out.
- Use durable outerwear from wind and humidity, covering with suitable clothing that is not too tight.
- Protect properly the head and hands, since they are areas susceptible to heat loss.
- Wear waterproof, non-slip footwear to prevent falls, especially for older adults.
- Try to stay dry, as wet clothing cools the body quickly and can worsen the thermal sensation on hot days. cold on clear nights.
In case of emergency, it is important to contact the emergency services to social services of each location. For those who wish to delve deeper, there is information that may be of interest and provides a broader context for extreme cold.
Impact on the autonomous communities and emergency measures
The cold snap sweeping the country has prompted the activation of emergency plans in several autonomous communities. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued alerts in several provinces that have experienced severe conditions. In particular, the drop in temperatures has been notable in:
- Castile and Leon: Lows as low as -10°C have been recorded, with orange warnings in Soria and Segovia.
- Madrid's community: Lows have reached -6°C in the Sierra, while metropolitan areas have seen temperatures as low as -4°C.
the community of Andalusia has also experienced cold temperatures, with lows of 1°C in Córdoba and 4°C in Granada. In Extremadura, warnings for lows of -4°C have been issued in some locations. For more information on the impact of the cold in Spain, see the article on Spain under the snow.
Snow, rain and wave warning
The arrival of the Isolated Upper-Level Depression (DANA) brings with it increased atmospheric instability. This system is expected to bring rain and snow to several autonomous communities, especially:
- Valencian Community: Where accumulations of more than 50 mm of rain are expected in southern Valencia and northern Alicante.
- Balearics: 30 mm of precipitation is expected, which could translate into snowfall in the mountains.
The most affected areas will include the Teruel mountain ranges and the Catalan Pyrenees, where light snowfall is expected, with accumulations of between 1 and 3 cm. Find out more about these conditions in the article on the feeling of cold when it snows.
Future perspectives
As we move into next week, temperatures will begin to recover a few degrees, although immediate relief from the extreme cold is not expected. frost will continue This phenomenon is common in inland Spain, especially in mountainous areas and on the plateau. Forecasts indicate that the drop in temperature will persist, affecting daily life, transportation, and road safety. It is essential to follow the recommendations of meteorological authorities and stay informed about the evolving weather situation as new episodes of cold weather and possible snowfall develop. For more information on cold weather, you can consult the article on the dangers of cold weather.
